Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has forged a robust alliance with GoTo and TikTok to orchestrate a symphony of educational, research, and community service endeavors.
These three influential entities have harmoniously agreed to nurture the nation’s most brilliant minds, transforming them into digital talents ready to shine globally.
The inaugural act of this collaborative venture unfolded with the formal signing of a memorandum of understanding, a significant pact consummated on Friday (Dec. 15) at the UGM Central Building.
Sealing this alliance was the UGM Vice-Rector for Planning, Assets, and Information Systems, Dr. Arief Setiawan Budi Nugroho; GoTo Group’s Chief Technology Officer, Herman Widjaja; and TikTok Indonesia’s Executive Director of E-Commerce, Stephanie Susilo.
“When delving into information technology, generating ideas without a nuanced understanding of on-ground challenges can be daunting. UGM is a repository of seasoned experts and budding talents. Yet, expertise without practical implementation may not realize its full potential,” remarked Dr. Nugroho.
“The aspiration is that this partnership will bear tangible results, enabling us to collectively contribute substantially to Indonesia’s progress.”
He underscored that UGM presents an expansive canvas for GoTo and TikTok, providing myriad collaboration opportunities with study programs and research centers in diverse activities. The ripple effect is anticipated to be felt by students, lecturers, and researchers.
“Expressing gratitude for the bestowed trust and this collaborative journey, UGM envisions growth and advancement hand in hand with our partners, blending our unique potentials to complement and mutually reap the rewards,” he added.
A tangible manifestation of this partnership is the inception of the GoTo x TikTok x UGM Technology Center, poised to become a hub for cultivating digital talents within the UGM Innovation and Creativity Arena (GIK) confines.
The Chief Technology Officer of GoTo Group illuminated that talents incubated through this joint platform are envisaged to play a pivotal role in propelling the digital economy’s growth in Indonesia.
“Nearly all digital talents at GoTo are homegrown, and I firmly believe Indonesians have the potential to leave a global footprint. It’s a source of pride for GoTo to be a catalyst in this momentous journey, particularly in nurturing digital talents in Indonesia. We extend our gratitude to UGM and GIK for allowing us to collaborate,” expressed Herman Widjaja.
In tandem with this, Stephanie Susilo elucidated that a cornerstone of the strategic partnership between TikTok and the GoTo Group is a shared commitment to fortify Indonesia’s economic landscape. This encompasses concerted efforts to cultivate innovative and competitive local talents.
“It’s an honor for us to translate our commitment into reality through the GoTo x TikTok x UGM Technology Center. This marks the inaugural step in collaboration with the education sector to provide optimal advantages and contribute to the technological sector’s advancement in Indonesia,” she said.
“We eagerly anticipate further collaborations with the GoTo Group and UGM in empowering digital talents in Indonesia.”
Author: Gloria
Photographer: Firsto